Forklift Safety Guidelines and Tips
Each and every year, there are approximately 20,000 cases of accidents which are related to utilizing forklifts within the United States alone. And each and every year approximately 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, correct training concerning maintenance and operation procedures could considerably reduce the chance of accidents. The following basic safety rules and tips must be followed when utilizing a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making sure that employees are trained to utilize a forklift and have undergone a correct training program. Training includes a combination of presentations, lectures, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation should occur every three years. Forklift operators need to be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content covers general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, dangers related to using the specific forklift which the employee will be using and workplace lighting and surfaces. An employee should be at least 18 years old to operate a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections should be done on a daily basis in order to guarantee the proper and safe functioning of the equipment. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of things and reporting any problems at once.
The Workplace
Safe use of a forklift involves a safe and clean workplace. A safe work site means establishing "traffic lanes" which are designated for forklift use only. Warning systems such as flashing lights and horns should be in place to be able to indicate when there is an approaching forklift. Forklift docking stations must be kept in good repair and inspected on a daily basis.
General Guidelines
Included in the general safety guidelines of using a forklift are respecting the load capacity of the forklift and never exceeding the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, such as oil spills or wet spots; raising or lowering the load only while the forklift is stationary; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; and keeping legs, hands and arms inside the vehicle during operation.